What's eating my geranium macrorrhizum 'spessart'?

Geranium macrorrhizum 'Spessart' shares the species' aromatic foliage that repels most browsers. Vine weevil is the primary concern — adult beetles notch leaves while larvae attack the fleshy rhizomes. Slugs may damage tender emerging leaves in spring. The cultivar is otherwise notably resilient.

Characteristic U-shaped notches on leaf margins from adults; larvae sever rhizomes causing plant sections to collapse Drench soil with Steinernema kraussei nematodes in late summer; check under plants at night for adult beetles and destroy

Ragged holes and silvery slime trails on young leaves emerging in early spring Apply ferric phosphate pellets; set beer traps nearby; clear debris where slugs shelter during the day

Distorted, sticky new growth; minor infestation typical; rarely causes lasting damage Dislodge with a water jet; apply insecticidal soap spray; encourage predators such as ladybirds